India’s Evolving Foreign Policy

Source: The post “India’s Evolving Foreign Policy” has been created, based on “Claim, counterclaim: On India and foreign policy” published in “The Hindu” on 18 October 2025. India’s Evolving Foreign Policy.

UPSC Syllabus: GS Paper -2- Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s interests

Context: India’s foreign policy has evolved to navigate complex relationships, especially with the United States and Russia. Amid rising global tensions, India’s diplomatic approach, marked by strategic ambiguity, has been tested, particularly regarding its stance on Russian oil imports and its position on the Ukraine conflict.

India-US Relations and Recent Tensions:

1. President Trump recently claimed that Prime Minister Modi had assured him that India would stop purchasing Russian oil.
2. India quickly denied this assertion, emphasising that discussions on energy cooperation were ongoing, but no agreement had been made to halt oil imports from Russia.
3. India’s response reflects its diplomatic strategy of maintaining ambiguity and avoiding overt commitments on sensitive issues.

Strategic Ambiguity in Foreign Policy:

1. India’s long-standing approach of strategic ambiguity allows it to manage its relationships with both the U.S. and Russia.
2. This “soft denial” method helps India maintain flexibility in its foreign engagements while avoiding unnecessary confrontations.
3. Despite growing international pressure, India continues to purchase Russian oil to ensure energy security.
4. India has refrained from condemning Russia directly, instead calling for a peaceful resolution and non-interference in national sovereignty.
5. India’s stance reflects its pragmatic approach to balancing its national interests with international expectations.

Challenges:

1. Geopolitical Pressures: India faces significant pressure from both the U.S. and Russia, as well as other global actors, to take clear positions. The challenge lies in balancing these competing interests without alienating any major partner.
2. Energy Security vs. Global Norms: India’s continued reliance on Russian oil amidst global sanctions poses a challenge, as it must balance energy security with adherence to international norms, especially concerning Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
3. Moral Dilemmas: India’s reluctance to take a strong stance on global issues like Ukraine risks undermining its moral authority, especially as it seeks a greater role in global governance.
4. Economic Dependencies: India’s dual dependence on both the U.S. and Russia complicates its ability to take firm stances on controversial issues, especially in trade, defence, and energy sectors.

Way Forward:

1. Clear Articulation of Foreign Policy: India should adopt a more transparent approach to its foreign policy, particularly regarding Russia and Ukraine, while safeguarding its national interests. Clearer communication will enhance India’s global credibility.
2. Strengthening Multilateral Engagements: India should continue to leverage multilateral platforms like the UN, G20, and BRICS to assert its position on global issues, promoting peace, dialogue, and stability.
3. Energy Security and Diversification: India must diversify its energy sources to reduce dependence on any single country, focusing on renewable energy, nuclear power, and new partnerships to ensure long-term energy security.
4. Engagement with the U.S. and Western Powers: While maintaining relations with Russia, India should further deepen its engagement with the U.S. and other Western powers, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, to enhance its security and economic interests.
5. Moral Leadership in Global Governance: India can enhance its moral leadership by clearly advocating for peace, democracy, and sovereignty, positioning itself as a global leader committed to ethical principles and international law.
6. India’s Need for Moral Clarity: While ambiguity has served India’s interests, there is an increasing demand for greater moral clarity, particularly regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. India, as the world’s largest democracy, can play a leading role in promoting peace and democratic values on the global stage.

Conclusion: India’s foreign policy must evolve to balance strategic interests with greater moral clarity. By articulating a clear stance on key global issues, strengthening multilateral ties, and promoting energy diversification, India can enhance its role as a responsible global leader committed to peace, stability, and democracy.

Question: Examine the evolving dynamics of India’s foreign policy, especially in the context of its engagement with the United States and Russia.